Are you thinking of switching to a less toxic lifestyle and don't really know where to start?
I went through the same process and a couple of times I came to the point where I wanted to give up.
What I have learned from it is to do it step by step and start with easy changes to avoid getting overwhelmed. Don't throw all your products in the bin that'll be a total waste. Instead finish them up and in the meantime look for better options.
Below you'll find a list of simple things I have changed. Keep in mind that changing to a less toxic lifestyle is a journey and there's always potential for more. I'm still not where I want to be but I'm trying to improve every day.
1. Wellness cabinet
- Body lotion - jojoba oil mixed with essential oil
- Shampoo & Body wash - nontoxic alternatives
- Deodorant - aluminium free
- Hair oil - jojoba oil mixed with essential oil
- Toothpaste - fluoride free (instead I look for Hydroxyapatite in toothpaste which studies show to be as effective as fluoride)
- Perfume - I'm not using it daily anymore, only on special occasions (3-4 times/year)
- silicone menstrual cup
2. Travel
- Sunscreen - physical/mineral sunscreen
- Stainless steel water bottle
- Stainless steel lunch box
3. Kitchen
- Class/stainless steel containers instead of plastic
- Stainless steel or cast iron cook and bakeware
- Wooden or stainless steel cooking utensils (silicone is considered safe, too)
4. Home
- Open your windows daily to let fresh air in and improve air quality
- Use non-toxic cleaning products
- natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, and Castile soap are cheap and effective
- Take off your shoes to keep your living space cleaner and free from outdoor pollutants
- Avoid scented candles & air freshener
5. Food & Drinks
- Cooking at home with fresh and whole ingredients allows you to control what goes into your meals
- Stay away from processed food - they often contain additives, preservatives, and artificial colours
- Grass-fed and organic dairy & meat to minimise exposure to antibiotics and hormones
- Use the Dirty Dozens & Clean Fifteen lists as a guideline when shopping fresh produce
- Soak non organic produce in baking soda solution (see blogpost)
- Use a water filter to reduce exposure to contaminants in tap water
- Animal fats & olive oil instead of vegetable/seed oils
In a nutshell
I think these are easy changes everyone can start with. It's for you to decide what you take from it. Doing your own research will help you to become a better understanding.
It's important to set priorities and only swap products and habits you feel comfortable and happy with. Keep in mind that even small changes can make a difference. If you don't want to give up using your favourite perfume, then don't.
